Joining forces: integrating proteomics and cross-linking with the mass spectrometry of intact complexes

Mol Cell Proteomics. 2012 Mar;11(3):R111.014027. doi: 10.1074/mcp.R111.014027. Epub 2011 Dec 16.

Abstract

Protein assemblies are critical for cellular function and understanding their physical organization is the key aim of structural biology. However, applying conventional structural biology approaches is challenging for transient, dynamic, or polydisperse assemblies. There is therefore a growing demand for hybrid technologies that are able to complement classical structural biology methods and thereby broaden our arsenal for the study of these important complexes. Exciting new developments in the field of mass spectrometry and proteomics have added a new dimension to the study of protein-protein interactions and protein complex architecture. In this review, we focus on how complementary mass spectrometry-based techniques can greatly facilitate structural understanding of protein assemblies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Mass Spectrometry / methods*
  • Protein Interaction Mapping
  • Proteins / chemistry*
  • Proteins / metabolism*
  • Proteomics / methods*

Substances

  • Proteins